CiVic Magazine Issue 3 - June 2013 by Kristi High

ISSUE 3 JUNE 2013

e live m o C i

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It’s not what it holds. It’s what it sets free.

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F e a t u r es

Construction starts after flood devastation Baw Baw Shire Council

Safety for cyclists improved on busy road Port Phillip City Council

COVER STORY: Rural councils driving local economies Bass Coast, Campaspe and Glenelg shire councils

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Indigenous reconciliation project Yarra City Council

Defunct land becomes community hub Greater Dandenong Shire Council

President’s Report

Employer brand communications campaign Boroondara City Council

Editor’s Note

Opinion by Monash Mayor Micaela Drieberg

Another Hanging Rock concert success Macedon Ranges Shire Council

Sector Connector by Verne Krastins

In Brief

Events

5 minutes with Strathbogie Cr Colleen Furlanetto

New model an Australian first in PVAW Monash City Council Improving facilities for people with disabilities Maroondah City Council

Cover photo: Come to the country This page: Fernando Ramirez performs an Aztec dance ceremony at Viva Victoria during Cultural Diversity Week. Photo by Jorge de Araujo.

Re g u l a r s

Disclaimer Puffafish (“Publisher”) advises that the contents of this publication are at the sole discretion of the Municipal Association of Victoria and the publication is offered for background information purposes only. The publication has been formulated in good faith and the Publisher believes its contents to be accurate, however, the contents do not amount to a recommendation (either expressly or by implication) and should not be relied upon in lieu of specific professional advice. The Publisher disclaims all responsibility for any loss or damage which may be incurred by any reader relying upon the information contained in the publication whether that loss or damage is caused by any fault or negligence on the part of the publisher, its directors and employees. Copyright All advertisements appearing in this publication are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced except with the consent of the owner of the copyright. Advertising Advertisements in this magazine are solicited from organisations and businesses on the understanding that no special considerations other than those normally accepted in respect of commercial dealings, will be given to any advertiser.

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CONTENTS ISSUE 3 JUNE 2013

Cultural diversity celebrated across the state

President’s Report

The results of the MAV’s recent board elections have displayed a welcome shift in securing a majority female board for the first time. Bill McArthur MAV President

imilar rising trends were also evident after the council elections, with a 17 per cent rise in women elected and 31 female mayors this year. Gender equity is important to ensure we reflect the realities of our community. It is also a critical element of ongoing sector programs and initiatives to address violence against women. As many people are aware, I am a proud White Ribbon Ambassador and passionate about this role. When you think about the investment that governments place on physical activity, alcohol and smoking, it is shocking to learn that violence from men is the leading contributor to preventable ill health, death and disability in Victorian women aged 15 to 44.

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The National Plan to Reduce Violence Against Women and their Children (2010-22) also estimates that for every incident of violence against women that is prevented, around $21,000 is saved. The personal and financial cost from violence against women is not only experienced by the individuals involved, but significantly impacts on the wellbeing, aspirations and opportunity of our entire community. Local government is ideally placed to lead by example and model gender equitable and respectful relationships through our plans, policies, programs and services. In May we proudly launched our Prevention of Violence Against Women – Leading change in the Victorian local government sector.

You can read more about the handbook on page 21 of this edition of CiVic, although there is much more occurring in Victorian councils than the eight case studies showcased. Our sector should be proud of its efforts in leading the way, with significant interstate and international interest generated by the success of Victorian councils’ efforts. Looking towards a better future for local government and our communities, we are also pleased that a referendum on constitutional recognition for local government will take place on 14 September. This is a chance for all Victorians to take charge and protect the future of their communities. Both Liberal and Labor Australian Governments have made direct

payments to councils for many years, with billions of dollars invested in thousands of local community projects. However, two recent High Court cases have created uncertainty about the Commonwealth’s constitutional power to continue this way of funding. This referendum is not about politics or who you vote for. It is about protecting direct funds that flow to our communities for local roads and thousands of other facilities. It will not change the relationships between local and state governments. It will simply confirm that the existing practice of direct federal funding of local community services can continue without being at risk of further legal challenge. Voting ‘yes’ on 14 September will achieve this.

Editor’s Note

Rural councils have been in the spotlight these past three months with a range of activities going on around the state.

ural Councils Victoria has been particularly busy, playing a role in assisting councils prepare for the Regional Victoria Expo. This was a great event held over two days at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre. Once I managed to drag my children away from Benalla’s enticing hang gliding simulator, it was great bumping into a number of friendly faces hosting the council stands. Speaking of hosts, Benalla’s upcoming Open Day is featured on page 18 alongside Yarriambiack, which took a number of families who registered at the Regional Victoria Expo around town and treated them to an overnight stay in a grain silo. The Rural Summit in Lakes Entrance was a great success. We interviewed three summit presenters for this issue to see how their councils were rising to economic challenges and ensuring

their communities stay on top of evolving technologies. There were plenty of great success stories that came out of the summit and you can read more about these on the Rural Councils Victoria website. Still outside the metro area, I witnessed first hand the exceptional Bruce Springsteen at Hanging Rock concert. Macedon Ranges Shire Council did a magnificent job coordinating the two concerts held over the Easter weekend and local businesses would be thrilled with the $14 million boost it gave the local economy. Since last issue, we celebrated International Women’s Day and a number of councils, including Monash, recognised this day by raising the topic of gender equality. Thank you to Monash Mayor Micaela Drieberg for sharing her views on this issue (page 6).

Kristi High Editor Hundreds of events were held across the state in recognition of Cultural Diversity Week and A Taste of Harmony Day. We have re-capped some of these events in a four‑page spread. Congratulations to all the councils who have been recognised with awards recently. The MAV has announced its 2013 Annual Report Awards (page 24): Yarra City Council won the 2013 National Award for Local Government in Promoting Reconciliation (page 19), Greater Dandenong‘s clever use of space earned it an LGPro Award for Excellence (page 25) and Boroondara won a prestigious award for best internal communications. The next edition of CiVic is already underway. There will be another feature on the great work councils are doing in the area of Prevention of Violence Against Women. Please get in touch if you have a story idea.

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Editor Kristi High § 0407 366 466 § kristi@puffafish.com.au Editorial Deadline 16 August 2013 § editorial@puffafish.com.au Advertising Tony Cornish § advertising@puffafish.com.au Design & Layout Jason Jeffery & Kathryn Steel

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Contributors: Justene Cowie, Lisa Louden, Verne Krastins, Eliza Nolan.

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Opinion

Carving a new image for mayors I had the pleasure of visiting a local primary school recently to talk to the senior students about leadership. A student, Casey, whose mum had shown her a photo of me in our council’s newsletter, invited me. Casey expressed surprise to her mother that I was the mayor as her image of a mayor was someone older and with a beard. I enjoyed visiting Casey’s school and shattering some of those gender stereotypes. Cr Micaela Drieberg Mayor, Monash City Council

’m telling this story because it shows we still have a fair way to go before gender stereotypes are a thing of the past. Lots of people still have an image in their head of what a mayor looks like, and that image is male. When I am introduced at community gatherings, occasionally people seem taken aback that I am the mayor. I look younger than I am and I don’t go in for a lot of formalities. I don’t worry about people’s reactions as I see it as part of my role to challenge gender assumptions and make it easier for the next generation of women. I also feel supported by the kinship and example shown by the three outstanding female Monash mayors who preceded me over the past decade – Joy Banerji, Charlotte Baines and Stefanie Perri. There have been great gains in female representation on Victorian councils over the past 20 years but there is still a lot of work to be done. It is fantastic that there are now 30 female mayors across Victoria. About 34 per cent of Victoria’s 631 councillors are female, up from 26 per cent in 2000. All Victorian councils now have elected women, although 10 of these councils only have a single female councillor. My hat is off to those women who are the single female voice on their councils. Well done for the example you are setting. 6 c i vi c

While the overall story is one of progress, there are setbacks along the way. Sadly, Monash was among the 15 Victorian councils that went backwards in female representation in last year’s elections. Out of 11 Monash councillors, two are female, compared with five out of 11 prior to the election. I see this as a momentary blip and expect we will see more of a balance restored at the next council elections. Why does it matter whether there is equal representation of women on Victorian councils? Well, first of all, we make up half of the population so I don’t see why we shouldn’t make up half of the leadership positions. And, secondly, I think females do sometimes bring a different perspective. Look at the example of the first female mayor in Victoria, Nellie Grace Ibbott. Nellie was elected Mayor of Heidelberg Council in 1943 after serving a 15 year apprenticeship as a councillor (Nellie was obviously a persistent woman!). The entry about Nellie in the Australian Dictionary of Biography states, ‘During her time on the council, more emphasis was placed on community services than on the traditional roles of local government – rates, roads and rubbish. Seven baby health centres were established and Heidelberg claimed to be the first municipality to have implemented widespread immunisation against diphtheria’. At Monash, our female councillors have also been strong advocates on issues that have traditionally been seen as ‘women’s issues’ but more and more are coming into

Monash Mayor Cr Micaela Drieberg and local student Casey.

the mainstream. My immediate predecessor Stefanie Perri argued strongly and effectively for state government funding so we could run a pilot program aimed at reducing domestic violence. You can read more about this program in this edition of CiVic. Our council has also introduced several other initiatives to encourage, support and celebrate local women including an Empowering Monash Women’s network and an annual Women’s Business Luncheon.

These initiatives have been supported by all councillors – female and male. My argument is not that male councillors are incapable of representing women’s views. That is clearly not the case as many are tireless advocates for improving women’s position. What I am arguing is that communities benefit when there is strong female representation and different perspectives in a council leadership team. @micaeladrieberg

Column

Sector Connector

The price of fresh air

Verne Ivars Krastins

Shires on the edge

y local government apprenticeship played out in the inner city, but since embarking as ‘gun for hire’, most local government time has been at Melbourne’s fringes or in Victoria’s regions. The professional’s experience of working in a small shire council versus a populous inner metro one couldn’t be starker. Everything is different. It’s about money of course. At a cash strapped shire, if you can’t do both, the choice is obvious between employing someone who provides direct services and someone who researches, thinks and writes about them and bigger pictures. You don’t find many corporate planners, researchers, marketers or cultural development people around. The downside for the professional is lack of an immediate peer group, and few collaborators within the organisation to work with. For the leaders though, there is no downside if it’s unavoidable and responsible use of a limited staff budget. But I disagree. Seems to me that the communities with the greatest need for blue sky thinking, innovation, shared systems and explorative collaboration are the struggling shires.

Who we are

Victorian councils are grouped as four – metropolitan and ‘interface’ Melbourne, rural or regional cities, and rural shires. Interface councils are becoming evermore metro because inner Melbourne is full, but they’re also larger geographies with agricultural land, so services differ in cost, scale and type. Regional cities are growth areas too,

BSc (Hons), Fellow LGPro not dissimilar to interface councils, sucking up the populations around. And that leaves a residual set of vast shires and small towns hanging off the edge, suffering osmosis.

City grunt

Although complicated and convoluted, inner metro councils are great to work in because of the cash. You can’t do everything, but there’s room to experiment, fail and try again. Compared to the bush, metro councils are on fiscal easy street. The capacity of inner metro communities to influence their councils is especially high. Educational levels, predominance of professional and managerial types, and close proximity to town hall help. My guess too, is that a majority of state government public servants live in inner city municipalities, and they know about pulling political ropes very well. In the bush and smaller townships, you have the tyranny of distance, small and ageing populations, pragmatic and culturally homogenous communities, and much lower levels of economic churn through local shops and businesses.

For the people

A community plan is a document ‘by the people for the people’, expressing a vision for the future and possibly describing how to get there. Most councils have one. Some are entirely visionary, good for quotations in funding applications. Better researched plans can be touted as the basis for the four year council plan, with parts of the former retrofitted onto the latter to support priorities.

Illustration by Kathryn Steel.

As visions, they allude to the same thing though. We all want jobs, security, homes and wellbeing. Everything else follows subject to local conditions.

From parasite to symbiot

Peak sector and industry bodies, and higher levels of government, carve up the state into regions that make sense to them. Examples are tourism, waste management, sustainability and health. Then they invite councils to participate. Turning the tables would be a great thing to see. Shires could self organise around local conditions and the axiomatic framework of human needs

expressed in most community visions. Then put a regional community plan together, forge an overlap of council plans, and share a management reporting system that tracks the regional picture. It would take pooling resources, a genuine letting go of single identities in favour of the regional one (especially amongst councillors and senior management), and have confidence that there’s a shared vision to be had. If the constitutional referendum on local government gets a yes, self directed regional collaborations may be just the thing, making the price of fresh air affordable. c i vi c

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Multicultural Sport, music, film, words and dance were mediums for multiculturalism across Victoria in March celebrating Cultural Diversity Week, Harmony Day and A Taste of Harmony. Lisa Louden

etropolitan and regional councils held a myriad of events, all celebrating the benefits that multiculturalism brings to the state as well as to their own communities. Not only did councils work with other organisations – small and large – they also worked with other councils to bring these unique and interesting events to fruition. Victoria’s population of 5.35 million is among the fastest growing and most diverse in Australia. According to the 2011 Census, 26 per cent of Victorians were born overseas in more than 200 countries and 47 per cent of Victorians were either born overseas or have at least one parent that was. Like our diverse backgrounds, so were the celebrations, and at the hub of our diversity was Melbourne City Council. Melbourne certainly kicked goals in the sporting arena with various events including the Unity Cup. Now in its sixth year, the Unity Cup’s goal is to bring communities together through football. Participants, aged 15 to 19 years comprised teams from Muslim, Jewish, African and

Indigenous communities along with inter-state teams. Sport also brought together a group of locals from the town of Nhill, who, thanks to support from Hindmarsh Shire Council and the Sports Without Borders program were awarded a grant to travel to Melbourne to participate in the One World Cup. Organised by the Victorian Police Soccer Club, 24 teams from across Victoria competed in the five-a-side soccer matches in a round-robin event. The Nhill team was comprised of Karen residents, originally from Burma, and now living in the western Victoria town. With a population of about 2,000 and facing difficulties akin to small country towns across the land, the arrival of Nhill’s newest migrants has not only provided them safe refuge and a new community, but for the town itself, economic, cultural and community benefits. Staying regional, Ballarat City Council held a five hour live concert as part of their Ballarat Harmony Fest featuring two iconic figures in Australian music – Indigenous singer songwriter and ARIA winner, Archie Roach, and Shane Howard,

Left: MP Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship The Hon Nicholas Kotsiras (third from left) gets into the spirit of Viva Victoria. Photo by: Jorge De Araujo. c i vi c

With One Voice choir unites diverse voices in song.

former front man of the band Goanna. Through song and story they reached out to bridge the divide between indigenous and other Australians. Returning to Ballarat by popular demand, the unique Massive choir also performed. Blending hip hop with traditional vocal harmonies, as well as rap and dance, Massive personifies multiculturalism. The band is comprised of young artists from more than 15 diverse backgrounds, aged 18 to 25 years of age. Another choir with a Harmony Day performance, this time in Melbourne city, was With One Voice. The With One Voice choir of all ages and from all walks of life celebrates multiculturalism every time it performs and had more than 70 members participating on the day. Music was also part of Darebin City Council’s Harmony Day concert, with Cuban band, Carlitos Way, featuring seven musicians and 1 0 c i vi c

playing Cuban and Latin rhythms, among others. “The celebration brings people from all backgrounds together to share aspects of their culture, faith and language, and celebrate diversity,” Darebin Mayor Tim Laurence said. During the concert celebrations, Darebin launched four action papers: Darebin Aboriginal Action Plan 2012 – 2015; Darebin Multicultural Action Plan 2012 – 2015; Darebin Sex, Sexuality and Gender Diverse Action Plan 2012 – 2015; and Darebin Human Rights Action Plan 2012 – 2015. “Our strategies outline council’s commitment to building a future based on equity, respect and understanding for all, as well as the elimination of the disadvantages some groups in our community continue to suffer,” Cr Laurence said. Dance also featured in Darebin’s celebrations with the Gindan Jarbul

Young Aboriginal Women’s Dance Troupe. Varieties of dance also rocked stages at Viva Victoria, a free one-day festival at Federation Square and the closing event of Cultural Diversity Week. Viva Victoria had more than 70 cultures on show as a music and dance spectacular with four music

and dance stages, market stalls from Africa to Vietnam, an art exhibition, a sports zone with clinics with the AFL, Melbourne Victory and Melbourne Heart. The Colourfest Film Festival of short films was a major attraction. The films focused exclusively on migrant stories and were mostly

Brimbank City Council launched its book project, A Taste of Faith, on Harmony Day.

conceived as a response to the lack of cultural diversity on Australian screens. Festival goers’ taste buds were in overdrive with delicious global food from Nepal to West Africa and everywhere in between. In fact, food festivals and cuisine from all over the world were devoured and enjoyed across the state during March. Maribyrnong City Council hosted several events to delight the palate. Garden to Plate encouraged participants to get off the beaten track, immerse their senses and feed their inner-traveller in Braybrook’s backyard. As well as cooking and tasting delicious food, people could tour the garden and hear stories inspired by the earth, food and culture. As part of National Close the Gap Day, Maribyrnong City Council held a community barbecue with kangaroo stew and damper, native herb tastings and a weaving circle. Council’s fourth annual Harmony Feast at Maidstone was a taste delight with a variety of cuisines to sample and multicultural activities to participate in like African drumming and henna tattoos. Maribyrnong also celebrated with adult events like Stand Up for Diversity comedy night while A River of Words: Vietnamese and English Pre-school Story Time was designed with the younger residents in mind. With more than 200 countries of origin and 230 languages in Victoria, and 23 per cent of Victorians speaking a language other than English at home, it’s little wonder that words, in stories, in poetry and in language-exchange, featured in many celebrations.

Yarra City Council, in partnership with Richmond West Primary School and The Song Room, celebrated Cultural Diversity Week with Many Languages – One Voice featuring music, language and story exchanges. A book project from Brimbank City Council, in conjunction with Brimbank and Maribyrnong Interfaith Network was also launched on Harmony Day. A Taste of Faith: Stories of Hope and Inspiration features stories and perspectives of nine local faith leaders. With 68 per cent of Victorians following 135 faiths, A Taste of Faith aims to promote understanding and acceptance of all religions while creating and sharing spiritual connection. Chair of Brimbank Administrators John Watson said the launch date couldn’t have been better planned. “Harmony Day is all about celebrating and accepting diversity across Australia and within our local communities; which is extremely important in Brimbank as we have one of the most culturally and religiously diverse municipalities in Melbourne,” he said. Brimbank and Maribyrnong City Councils held a Places of Worship and Art Tour visiting local places of worship and religious art including the Mata Chintapurni Hindu Arts and Culture Temple, the Bosnian Mosque and the Faith 2 Faith Art in Public Spaces Exhibition. No cultural celebration is complete without film and, in addition to Colourfest, a diverse range of films and festivals were showcased in Victoria throughout March.

L-R: Aamer Rahman, Lana Woolf, Maysa Abouzeid, Dawn McGuinness, Denise McGuinness and Vincent Chondo at Maribyrnong’s Stand Up for Diversity comedy night.

Ballarat City Council screened the 11Eleven Project, a unique documentary collating a snap shot of 11 November 2011, with contributors from 179 countries and a goal to plant a seed of compassion in the world and allow people across the globe to gain a perspective of others. A 50 minute documentary, I Live in Melbourne Now, produced by Sarah Howe from Drummond Street Services, asked five young Italians and five young Africans to interview people from their community about their migrant experience or tell their own story. Funded by a Melbourne City Council grant, it’s now hoped another grant will make the documentary available through further screenings and online. These events were just some of those happening for multicultural

The Victorian Multicultural Commission thanks all local government agencies for their outstanding contributions to Cultural Diversity Week 2013.

celebrations in Victoria in March. So if you missed the fun and want to be part of the free celebrations next year, be sure to clear your calendar for March 2014.

iPad See our extended le tic version of this ar ks complete w ith lin ic, us m s, m fil t to shor and os ot ph s, interv iew d, go more. To dow nloa nload w do d to iTunes an m fro e CiVic Magazin the app store.

Across Victoria, councils were active and passionate participants in the Week, helping us to promote and celebrate social harmony and cultural, linguistic and religious diversity in our communities. We look forward to your involvement in Cultural Diversity Week 2014.

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Ferndale’s flood fix-up underway Baw Baw Shire Council has commenced works to repair two landslips in Ferndale after severe floods hit the area over two consecutive years.

L-R: Earthmoving contractors malcom McInnes and Kylie Brooks onsite with Baw Baw Mayor Murray Cook and Director Community Assets Phil Cantillon.

ince June last year, when a storm swept through the region, residents living around the FerndaleStrzelecki Road area have been forced to drive up to 20kms out of their way after the natural disaster forced the closure of the road. Immediately following the 2012 floods, emergency clean up works were carried out, however, significant funds were required to repair the two landslips located about 500 metres apart and located 5kms from the main WarragulKorumburra Road. Using council funds, council went to work on investigations, designs and preparing estimates for the newly damaged storm sites. 1 2 c i vi c

A request for advanced financial assistance under the Natural Disaster Relief Fund was approved by the Department of Treasury and Finance. In February this year, council received an advanced payment from the state government, bringing the total to almost $2.9 million to reinstate the stormdamaged sites. Both council and the community welcomed the announcement of this funding, which allowed the preprepared designs to be put into action. Baw Baw Mayor Murray Cook said council had consulted with the community to keep them up-to-date with regular progress on the proposed landslip reinstatement works at Ferndale-Strzelecki Road.

“While there are not a huge amount of residents living on the road, for the 50 or so vehicles that used it daily it was a huge inconvenience for it to be closed,” Cr Cook said. “Being a new council on quite a learning curve, we inherited this issue and understood how important it was to keep the community up-to-date, so we knocked on doors to speak to the residents and kept them informed through emails, which was appreciated. “It was great news for all of us when the government committed to the latest funding requirement, and because we were ‘shovel ready’, the contract was awarded within a month and we were on site ready to go shortly after.” Reinstatement works started in April with completion expected

around August. The works include excavating and disposing of slipped material that will expose the face of the slip. A concrete foundation needs to be constructed and gabion walls, between 4-8 metres high, will be installed that include sub soil drains. Reinforced fill-in layers will be compacted and a 300mm thick road pavement including associated drainage will be constructed. Once this work is completed, the reinstated batter will be revegetated to provide additional stability and grass seeds sown in disturbed areas. Works have also started on other landslip sites located at TorwoodTopiram Road, Tetoora Road, Mountain View and Aberfeldy.

Over the past five years, Baw Baw Shire Council has faced a number of significant natural disasters including the devastating Black Saturday bushfires in February 2009, severe windstorms in August 2009 and storm events in February and March 2010. In March 2011, Baw Baw experienced a band of rain that resulted in significant damage extending a distance of 40kms across the Strzelecki Ranges. This significant storm event washed away road surfaces and created landslips in the Strzelecki Ranges as the ground became saturated, generating significant surface water runoff. About 240 sites were reported damaged by this storm, which included around 180 landslips, 40 of which were considered to be in the major/ severe category. Council received almost $7.5M from the Department of Treasury and Finance as advance funding for the reinstatement of storm damaged sites. The landslips located along the roads that were totally closed were reinstated and opened to traffic in December 2011. Works are currently in progress on the remaining storm damaged sites to complete reinstatement works. The tight-knit, resilient community of Baw Baw along with the commitment of council ensures the region continues to get back on its feet and enjoys the beauty of the region. As new mayor and first time councillor, Murray Cook, says, “it’s all part and parcel with living in the country.”

Works underway to repair landslips in Ferndale.

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A new section of bike path along St Kilda Road, connecting Albert Road and Park Street, is expected to improve safety for cyclists.

yclists called it a ‘black hole’, a section of bicycle path running along busy St Kilda Road near the Domain Interchange that just disappeared, and then reappeared 100 metres later. Now, the black hole has been fixed and thousands of cyclists travelling daily from Melbourne’s south east towards the city are enjoying a continuous bike ride. Port Phillip and Melbourne city councils played an instrumental role in the inclusion of this additional cycle path during stakeholder consultations coordinated by Yarra Trams about its proposed $10 million Domain Interchange upgrade. During discussions held in 2010, Port Phillip implemented its road user hierarchy model to highlight the need for a continuous cycle path between Albert Road and Park Street in an effort to improve safety for cyclists. The requirement for additional design work to improve pedestrian safety around one of Melbourne’s busiest tram interchanges was also put on the table. Melbourne City Council and Bicycle Victoria agreed that Yarra Trams’ proposed like-for-like upgrade solution for pedestrians 1 4 c i vi c

and cyclists was not ideal and a new path from Albert Road to Park Street was required along with improved traffic signals. Missing at the table at that stage was VicRoads, who had all the power to make it happen. Once on board, a compromise was achieved whereby

Transport Plan, Road User Safety Strategy and Bike Plan, we were able to gain co-operation from Yarra Trams to provide the bike path through the Domain Interchange to improve safety and connectivity of the St Kilda Road bike path through this busy intersection,” Cr Stevens said.

“Using local knowledge and experience reflecting council strategies … we were able to gain cooperation from Yarra Trams to provide the bike path through the Domain Interchange to improve safety and connectivity of the St Kilda Road bike path through this busy intersection.”

VicRoads’ proposed 1.2 metre-wide bike lanes became a 1.5 metre-wide continuous lane, which reduced the traffic lane slightly from 3 metres to 2.9 metres. Port Phillip Mayor Amanda Stevens said council played a significant role in influencing the Domain Interchange design. “Using local knowledge and experience reflecting council strategies, such as the Sustainable

Port Phillip’s Road User Safety Strategy seeks to reduce the burden of injury on the community by providing a safer environment for all road users within the municipality. The strategy places the needs of ‘unprotected road users’ at the centre of the approach with pedestrian needs being the priority followed by cyclists, public transport, freight, multiple-occupancy cars and singleoccupancy cars.

“Any proposals for changes to roads or road infrastructure in Port Phillip are assessed in line with the road user hierarchy,” Cr Stevens said. “Using this approach, the focus is on improving facilities for pedestrians and cyclists, exposure for all road users is reduced, overall vehicles traffic is also reduced as well as traffic accidents and the Port Phillip community becomes more sustainable.” As part of the Domain Interchange upgrade, pedestrian safety has been improved with additional signals and the installation of a new crossing connecting the south of the interchange with Albert Road. Cr Stevens said this project clearly demonstrated that when all responsible road authorities were willing to get together and co-operate, the final outcome was best for all road users. “It is also an important example for similar projects, not only in Port Phillip but also other municipalities, in achieving outcomes for groups that are the most vulnerable – like pedestrians, cyclists and public transport users – but not always well represented.”

Let the campaign begin

ictorian councils are rallying behind ALGA’s nationwide campaign in the lead up to September’s referendum to include local government in the Australian Constitution. The campaign will urge the Australian public to vote ‘yes’ on Saturday 14 September through consistent messaging and advertising across the country. An interim brand has been developed, which will be refined over the coming month, and a website will soon launch at www.fundinglocalcommunities.org.au to give the Australian public a clear picture about why constitutional recognition for local government is in the best interests of all communities. Port Phillip City Council is driving the message through its own communication channels and local media. Mayor Amanda Stevens said constitutional recognition was needed to overcome legal doubts about the Commonwealth’s ability to provide direct funding to local councils. “We need to protect federal funding that flows to our community for local roads and community facilities and services,” she said.

Greater Bendigo City Council has also started campaigning its constituents for a ‘yes’ vote at the referendum. Mayor Cr Lisa Ruffell said if supported, the change would help secure the future of direct Federal Government funding for programs such as Roads to Recovery Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program. “In a practical sense, such recognition will overcome any legal doubts about the Commonwealth’s ability to directly fund local government,” Cr Ruffell said. The Federal Government, the Federal Opposition, the Greens and the Independents support the referendum and the latest results of a Nielsen poll showed the majority of Australian voters are supportive of local government being included in the Constitution. “These statistics are consistent with ALGA’s own research, which indicates that the majority of voters support the concept of constitutional recognition of local government and more than 60 per cent support the need for financial recognition of local government,” ALGA President Felicity-Ann Lewis said.

Referendum

SayYes

Funding for Workplace Training Projects in 2013 The Workplace English Language and Literacy (WELL) program provides ﬁnancial support to employers, including local government, for tailored workplace training that builds employees’ work skills and strengthens their English language, literacy and numeracy. If you are an employer in Victoria wanting to improve workplace productivity and communication this program may be for you. Funding is available on a competitive, co-contribution basis and applications are accepted throughout the year. Enquiries about the WELL program can be directed by email to: WELL-VIC@innovation.gov.au or by phone: 03 9954 2769 For more information, including program guidelines and application forms visit the WELL website – www.innovation.gov.au/well

for your community

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Rural ideas keep country towns moving They may not have the internal resources of some of Melbourne’s big metros, but there is certainly no shortage of innovative ideas bursting from Victoria’s rural councils when it comes to overcoming economic challenges.

t a recent two-day Rural Summit supported by Rural Councils Victoria, more than 200 representatives mostly from rural and regional councils gathered in Lakes Entrance. Themed The Rural Revolution: challenging thinking on partnerships, planning and productivity, the summit showcased a number of Victorian councils’ solutions to common problems, particularly around economic development. The collective work by six Gippsland councils – Bass Coast, Baw Baw, Gippsland, Latrobe, South Gippsland and Wellington – around preparing for the arrival of the National Broadband Network

(NBN) is making a difference to local businesses. Together, these councils are reducing the digital divide and promoting the benefits to businesses when high speed internet finally arrives in the region. In a presentation at the summit, Bass Coast Economic Development Manager Peter Francis talked about the roll out of the Gippsland Broadband Engagement Plan, which was finalised in December 2011 through funding by Regional Development Australia (Gippsland). A consultant was engaged last year to work with the councils and deliver programs across Gippsland. Since September 2012, around 50

workshops have been held to assist local businesses to engage with the internet to expand their customer reach. This has included building websites, using email, learning iPad and iPhone skills, and utilising YouTube. Mr Francis said the Gippsland councils realised early that while they had little control over the NBN roll out, it was time to put energy into improving skills in internet usage. “Our aim is to teach people to engage more effectively with existing technology so that when the NBN is rolled out their capacity to capitalise on faster internet has been increased so no one gets left behind,” he said. While benefits in health and education, particularly in rural

and regional Australia, have been highly publicised by NBN Co, small to medium businesses have the opportunity to look beyond their local region for increased customers and sales. “The biggest difference we are making is building a community that is digitally aware,” Mr Francis said. “In addition to expanding business opportunities, we want to teach the community about other benefits like using a computer for other services like community health sites rather than travelling long distances for specialist appointments.” The Gippsland councils are working to build momentum throughout the region in the hope

Glenelg is fully aware one of its main economic strengths lies in the coastline – with an international port and haven for commercial and recreational fishing. 1 6 c i vi c

About RCV

Rural Councils Victoria (RCV) is a thought leader in developing sustainable and liveable rural communities and is the ‘go-to’ group for resources, information and data on Victoria’s rural councils. RCV delivers projects to provide support and solutions on issues facing Victoria’s 38 rural councils. It also highlights rural issues at other levels of government, and is a key collaborator on the reform agenda for Victoria’s small towns. RCV is chaired by Hindmarsh Shire Councillor Rob Gersch and funded by the Victorian Government’s Networked Rural Councils program. For more information visit www.ruralcouncilsvictoria.org.au

Workshops for local businesses to further internet skills are being rolled out across Gippsland’s six councils in preparation for the arrival of the NBN.

that the workshops will continue to be driven by the community after the funded sessions are finalised. What do you do when big businesses start fleeing your town? This is something Campaspe Shire Council knows more than a little about. Over the past five years the region has endured significant job losses with the closures of big name employers like Heinz, Coca Cola Amatil and Nestlé. But, you’d be hard pressed to find too many whiners within the resilient communities of Campaspe, who continue to rally and evolve with support from council. Internally, Campaspe Shire Council calls it community enterprise

The resilient communities of Campaspe are the drivers of their own destinies, coming up with innovative ideas to improve their economy with help from council.

development, a concept driven by the economic development team. “Community enterprise development is community planning with an economic twist,” describes Campaspe Community and Economic Development Manager Kerry Ann Jones. “It is about generating wealth that leads to health and wellbeing; building economic outcomes and social and community enterprises that leads to financial security of individuals and towns.” Council found recurring themes emerging every time a major employer pulled its operations out of the region, or restructures took place like at the Greenham and Sons Abattoir in Tongola which reduced its 24/7 operation to a 12-hour day. “The challenges facing a number of our communities were similar and there were ways council could help,” Ms Jones said. Council assisted the Girgarre community to negotiate with Heinz after the announcement came that the biggest employer in town was closing down. “This community could have taken a despondent and angry view to say how unfair life was,” she said. “Instead, we helped them work in partnership with (Heinz)

management, after all they had been very good corporate citizens, and the community was rewarded for how it handled the situation.” The rewards came in gifts of land, money and houses owned by Heinz. The community pulled together and council’s community enterprise notion kicked in. A farmers market to help local struggling farmers with excess produce was established and has become iconic with around 2,000 visitors from around the region visiting each month. A portion of income generated from these markets goes back to investing in the community to stabilise the economy. This income also leveraged grant money for feasibility studies into the donated Heinz land. “Instead of ‘woe is me’, the community took leadership to improve their own destiny and council was able to help by facilitating meetings, building capacity, and transferring its knowledge and skills into community.” Since the demise of the dairy industry in the 1930s where a large butter factory kept most of Merino employed, Glenelg has used its natural landscape to keep driving the local economy forward. Group Manager Planning and Economic Development Manager Sydney Deam said the industries that have survived the test of time are those that capitalise on the key natural assets of the region. One of Glenelg’s strengths is its coastline, which includes an international port. The coast is important for transport, commercial fishing, attracting tourism, and supports the region’s timber industry. “The port is a vital transport hub that attracts produce for export from around north western Victoria and

NSW like mineral sands and grain, and local timber from our 175,000 ha of hard wood plantation,” Mr Deam said. “Our large fishing fleet is a substantial local industry with around 40 per cent of wet fish in the Victorian market coming from Portland.” Along with commercial fishing, council is also supporting a growing recreational fishing market where up to 400 boats can turn out in the peak season for tuna fishing. “Our natural assets lend themselves to nature-based tourism industries,” Mr Deam said. “In the future, we are looking at introducing whale watching, seeking to facilitate cruise ships.” Glenelg Shire Council has also tapped into the high winds of the region to facilitate technologies where employment can be generated. “Wind towers are manufactured locally to create wind farms and jobs,” Mr Deam said. Mr Deam said while council did not always play a direct role in creating jobs, its understanding of the economy put it in an ideal position to facilitate and assist new industries and expand existing ones. “We play a vital role in the economy by assisting any new industry that may be thinking of coming here to get them over the line,” he said. “It is our job to facilitate and advocate for our vital industrial and manufacturing industries.” Kerry Ann Jones and Sydney Deam co-presented at the Rural Summit. To view the presentations visit www.ruralcouncilsvictoria.org. au/home/events/rural-summit-2013/ The next Rural Summit will be held in Nhill on 27 and 28 March 2014. c i vi c

Open season

for city slickers

ocals from rural and regional Victoria are opening the doors to their cities and towns to host potential sea – or tree – changers keen to find out more about country living. Hundreds of Melburnians, who attended the Regional Victoria Living Expo and had their appetite for country living piqued, were invited to a range of open days to meet the locals and gather information before packing up and setting up home in a country town. Yarriambiack Shire Council attracted five potential new families by offering a unique overnight stay in a converted grain silo.

Farmers from Benalla are eager and waiting to pass on their local knowledge to visitors during an Open Farm day planned in July. 1 8 c i vi c

Along with registrations collected at its Regional Victoria Living Expo stand, Yarriambiack promoted the open day with metropolitan Melbourne newspaper articles and through its regular channels including the website. Community members greeted guests as they were chaperoned on a tour of the shire. They visited local schools, businesses, health care services and key attractions to discuss real life issues with locals from where to shop, to the local football club, employment, and things to do on weekends. Community Development Officer Marianne Ferguson said the group was encouraged to bring their fishing rods and use the lake, visit the national park and enjoy a camp oven together. “We wanted to create a very relaxed weekend where our guests

could feel like part of the community, as if they were already living here,” she said. Benalla Rural City Council has already received 10 replies to its postcard handed out at the Regional Living Victoria expo, inviting visitors to an Open Farm day at the end of July. The group will be taken on a guided tour to look at four different types of farms and share the region’s rich culture by attending a football match and visiting a gallery. Benalla Manager Economic Development and Tourism Jeanie Hall said the aim of the open day was to provide opportunities for guests to explore their aspiration of living in a rural community. “We want our guests to be aware of some of the challenges as well as highlighting the benefits of Benalla,” Ms Hall said. “We plan to do this by showing the group a fully operational, mainstream farm, one that sells direct from the paddock, a sustainable farm with self sufficient power and water, and a lifestyle farm where the owners have offfarm careers and just enjoy rural living with a big back yard.” Benalla has teamed up with the Victorian Farming Federation, which will take part in the tour by talking about education and support networks available for small farmers. “The idea is it’s a day of exploring and discovery,” Ms Hall said. “At the finish we want people to be responsible farmers to ensure their transition is positive. The better informed they are the more successful it will be for them and for Benalla as a community.” Geelong took a different approach to its open day in early June by developing a regional self-drive tour. An itinerary of open towns was developed for potential relocators to drive around at their leisure, with the weekend culminating in a large event featuring presentations and networking. Rural Councils Victoria Chair Cr Rob Gersch said the rural and regional open day concept was developed after councils received numerous inquiries following last year’s Regional Victoria Living Expo.

Yarriambiack treated guests to an overnight stay in a grain silo as part of its Open Day that spanned a whole weekend in May. (Foreground) Mayor Kylie Zanker.

“The main focus for Rural Councils Victoria is to contribute to sustainable and liveable rural communities,” Cr Gersch said. “Attracting people to live, work and raise their families in rural towns is a key part of this. And it’s not that difficult because country living has so much to offer. “Research shows that it’s the connections people make with locals and community groups that triggers a desire to move and creates a successful relocation. “We wanted to help potential new locals make those first important connections and so we have supported councils to organise their events and we are delighted with the variety of concepts they have come up with and the number of events that will be held. To view the Open Day schedule visit www.ruralcouncilsvictoria. org.au/home/events/ open-days/

Stories bring reconciliation another step closer Yarra City Council combined walking, storytelling and technology to deliver an innovative reconciliation project that has gained national recognition.

ollow in my Footsteps: Celebrating Aboriginal Culture in Gertrude Street, was an interactive community engagement and consultation project that combined traditional storytelling with digital media. Walking tours were developed by council and delivered in mid-2012 by four well-known Aboriginal actors – Uncle Jack Charles, Melodie Reynolds, Greg Fryer and Jason Tamiru. These actors worked with other local Aboriginal elders connected to the area to enrich and authenticate stories for the tours, which were then targeted at people living, working or studying in and around Gertrude Street and nearby Smith Street. Over four days, the actors facilitated eight walking tours with audiences of around 15 people per group. Yarra City Council Community Development Officer Dan Ducrou said invited guests included members of the local Aboriginal community, traders, public housing tenants, residents, young people, artists, and service provider representatives. “We also wanted to include people from the local community who may have been vocal about perceived anti-social behaviour from Aboriginal community members and allow them the opportunity to participate in a cultural awareness experience and learn about the history of their

neighbourhood as well as the complex challenges faced by many Aboriginal people,” he said. Actors were used to captivate the audience through voice projection, the unique ability to hold the group’s attention, and for their understanding of the use of narrative in presenting ideas. “The participants were enriched by this approach, which was culturally appropriate and a far cry from standard local government consultation models with meeting rooms and flip charts. Many participants went away with a stronger sense of connection to the area and to the people,” Mr Ducrou said. Uncle Jack Charles shared a personal story with his groups about the first time he visited a local pub in Fitzroy, against the wishes of his foster mother, to meet people who knew his birth parents. “This was an important story for people to hear directly from a member of the Stolen Generations,” Mr Ducrou said. “Uncle Jack’s adoptive mother called the police and had him removed from her house for his disobedience, which gave people a powerful snapshot of the precarious lives of Aboriginal people put into foster care with non-Aboriginal families. “When Uncle Jack tells this story, he speaks in this beautiful rich voice; everyone was completely enchanted by the tale.”

Jason Tamiru addresses a walking tour under The Fig Tree (cnr Gertrude and Nicholson Streets), the same place Mr Tamiru’s grandfather, Pastor Sir Doug Nicholls, once advocated for the rights of his people. Photo by Bernie Phelan.

Follow in my footsteps: Melodie Reynolds and Greg Fryer lead a walking tour down Gertrude Street, Fitzroy. Photo: Bernie Phelan.

Involvement in the Walking Tours extended to a near whole-of-council approach with officers and managers from across the organisation offering to guide the groups, and providing ideas as how best to engage stakeholders. “This kind of involvement provides internal learning, which can feed into a variety of other projects, plans and policies,” Mr Ducrou said. While the walking tours are over for now, Yarra City Council is in talks with two local Aboriginal organisations who may be interested in establishing the walks as an ongoing business. In the meantime, Celebrating Aboriginal Culture in Gertrude Street lives on through Facebook, Yarra City Council’s first community-based Facebook page. Yarra Mayor Jackie Fristacky said celebrating Aboriginal culture and history through shared experiences

and storytelling was the key aim of the project. “This project is an excellent example of local government embracing modern technology to promote reconciliation and local storytelling,” Cr Fristacky said. “By using digital technology such as Facebook, the sharing continues long after the guided tours have concluded.” In April, Federal Minister for Local Government Anthony Albanese announced Yarra City Council as the winner of the 2013 National Award for Local Government in Promoting Reconciliation. Council is now in contention for the National Local Government Award for Excellence, which was due to be announced as CiVic went to print.

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Saturating Clayton with PVAW actions Monash City Council will play a vital role in delivering a $1 million program focusing on preventing violence against women in one saturated area.

he Generating Equality and Respect pilot program was officially unveiled in May and will be delivered over three years in partnership with MonashLink Community Health Service and funding provider VicHealth. For the first time in Australia, a demonstration site will be established in the Monash suburb of Clayton, where a number of tried and tested primary prevention programs will be implemented with a range of groups and organisations. A new model to promote equal and respectful relationships between men and women in the one community will be piloted, with a view to transfer the program across other communities in the future. While the model may be new, the programs implemented will be adapted from five of VicHealth’s Respect, Responsibility and Equality projects. Over the last six years VicHealth has worked with communities on singular programs to establish the most effective ways to ensure equality between men and women. The Generating Equality and Respect program is based on a saturation model, implementing some of the five VicHealth scaled-up program activities into one location to develop equality and respect across the whole community of Clayton. 2 0 c i vi c

L-R: Minister for Women’s Affairs the Hon Heidi Victoria, VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter, Monash Mayor Micaela Drieberg and MonashLink CEO Gregg Nicholls.

Monash was awarded the VicHealth funding in August 2012 through a tender process. “We could never have dreamt of doing a project of this magnitude without the VicHealth funding,” Mayor Micaela Drieberg said.

“To be given funding of this size sends a clear message that women’s lives matter. “It’s also great to be given the latitude to try new approaches to long-standing problems as that’s how you make progress.”

Several of VicHealth’s five scaledup program activities will be implemented in Clayton as part of the Generating Equality and Respect program. These may include: §§Working Together Against Violence – Corporate workplace §§Baby Makes 3 – Maternal and child health services §§Partners in Prevention – Youth-focused practitioner sector §§Respect and Equity – Local government and community health §§Northern Interfaith Respectful Relationships – Faith organisations

Clayton was chosen as the best demonstration site to pilot this new community approach because of the existence of strong partnerships and suitability of local organisations for action. “Clayton is a good place to try this community approach because it offers opportunities to reach lots of different audiences,” Cr Drieberg said. “We’ve got real hope that this project will filter through our community and result in cultural change where it is needed. The relationship between Monash City Council and MonashLink was a contributing factor in VicHealth’s tender decision. “We’ve got a really strong relationship with MonashLink and work with them regularly on projects to do with the welfare of our community such as problem gambling,” Cr Drieberg said.

“We’ve worked out a way of coordinating our services so that they complement each other rather than overlapping each other.” VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter said the project was the culmination of many years of VicHealth trials to find out what works to prevent violence against women. “Now we are concentrating those wins into the locality of Clayton to achieve a saturation effect,” Ms Rechter said. “We are very excited to see the outcome of this work because it has the potential to benefit the health of all Victorian women.” If successful, the plan is for Generating Equality and Respect to be implemented in other communities. “Monash is a microcosm of Melbourne so if the project can work to reduce violence against women here, there will surely be things that can be adapted for other parts of Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, even the world,” Cr Drieberg said.

The Municipal Association of Victoria has published a handbook showcasing eight councils’ work in preventing violence against women. Prevention of Violence Against Women, Leading change in the Victorian local government sector, was developed with funding support from VicHealth and was officially launched by MAV President Cr Bill McArthur at a White Ribbon Day conference held in Sydney recently. It has since been distributed to every council in Australia to boost nationwide momentum from local government on the issue. In his Foreword, Cr Bill McArthur urges everyone working in local government

to have a voice on the issue, calling on other peak body associations to develop a Prevention of Violence Against Women Leadership Statement, as the MAV did in 2012. He also encourages all councils to start by simply ensuring appropriate use of language in gatherings, and by speaking up when inappropriate behaviour towards women occurs in the workplace, among families or in the immediate community. The work of Darebin, Moreland, Maribyrnong, Warrnambool, Whittlesea and Casey city

councils, along with Strathbogie and Surf Coast shire councils is showcased in the 16-page booklet. However, Cr McArthur points out this is just a sample of the great work being done by councils across the state in the area of preventing violence against women. The booklet is available online at www.mav.asn.au under gender equity.

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Maroondah is changing places Installing adequate toilet facilities for people with all disabilities can change lives but it does not start and end with simply providing wheelchair accessibility.

aroondah City Council is leading the way for more toilets in public buildings to go beyond standard concepts and enhance accessibility for people with a severe disability when they go to shopping centres, libraries, movie theatres and sporting venues. After a world-wide search of the most accessible toilet facilities that meet the needs of people with a range of disabilities during the design phase of a major shopping centre redevelopment, Maroondah discovered Changing Places. The United Kingdom-based notfor-profit organisation, and brand for leading edge fixed disability toilets, has 500 registered sites throughout the United Kingdom and Maroondah is set to bring Changing Places to Victoria. Maroondah MetroAccess Officer Jack Mulholland said a consortium was established between Maroondah City Council, Knox City Council, Gift Options and the Association of Children with a Disability to introduce standardised Changing Places designs to the Australian market that should be provided in addition to, rather than replacing, standard accessible toilets. “We have come up with an Australian design by engaging Equal Access and a registered architect, occupational therapists and service providers Yooralla, Scope and the Association of Children with a Disability,” Mr Mulholland said. “We approached the owner of Eastland Shopping Centre and are very pleased that they will be the first shopping centre to implement two Changing Places toilets in the $500 million redevelopment of the centre.”

Changing Places toilets are large enough for a carer on both sides of the toilet, or one to move from side to side.

In addition, Maroondah will include two Changing Places facilities in the new Aquanation Regional Aquatic and Leisure Centre and State Diving Centre, due to open in 2015. Maroondah has also developed and built Marveloo, a mobile comfort station that has been purpose built with a mobile hoist and adult change table. The first of its kind, Marveloo can be hired for events and festivals. “Council has also developed a kit to assist other organisations that may wish to build one of their own,” Mr Mulholland said. Changing Places toilets should be provided in addition to standard accessible toilets, not replace them. The consortium’s vision is for Changing Places toilets to gain similar momentum to the Parents Room, a changing facility for young children installed in most (if not all) public buildings across the country from airports to train stations, sporting centres to arts centres. With momentum growing, the Changing Places consortium has applied for philanthropic and government funding to employ a full-time resource that will continue advocating for these toilets to be installed in libraries, civic buildings,

Maroondah City Council is leading the way for Changing Places toilet facilities to be installed in all new and existing public buildings in Victoria.

aquatic centres and all other public buildings in Victoria. “Without these facilities, the carer and the person with a disability face challenges when going to the movies, festivals, events, and shopping,” Mr Mulholland said. “The person with a disability may need to be changed on the floor of a public toilet, leave events early when they are in need of a change, or are forced to sit in wet continence pads until an appropriate changing area can be found. “These circumstances are also difficult for carers who may no longer be able to lift their child or the person they care for. “If we are serious about reducing isolation for people with a disability and improving access then appropriate changing facilities must

be retrofitted in all existing buildings, including premium train stations and airports, and included in the design of new developments.” The newly introduced National Disability Insurance Scheme is expected to have a number of positive impacts for people living with a disability. “Despite all the support that NDIS will provide, people with a severe or profound disability and their carers will still face the same critical barrier to participation in the community when leaving their home without Changing Places facilities available in public buildings,” Mr Mulholland said. Following a forum held at the end of 2012 and a subsequent meeting with the MAV in May, Maroondah City Council will be hosting a second event to introduce Changing Places later this year. c i vi c

ICAA/MAV Local Government Annual Report Awards 2013 We commend the sector for their efforts and commitment to effective annual reporting. Well done to all our 2013 winners, and to those councils who produced great reports but just missed out.

2013 AWARD WINNERS

Limited places. Get in quick. Register now www.mav.asn.au/events

HIGH RESOURCE

Yarra Ranges Shire Council Best annual report 2011-12; Best reporting on governance Boroondara City Council Best summary; Best financial overview; Best reporting on sustainability Kingston City Council Best reporting on performance

LOW RESOURCE

Colac Otway Shire Council Best annual report 2011-12; Best summary; Best financial overview; Best reporting on sustainability Bass Coast Shire Council Best reporting on performance Warrnambool City Council Best reporting on governance Geelong Regional Library Corporation Best annual report (Library corporation).

Colac Otway MAV Representative Cr Stephen Heart with MAV President Cr Bill McArthur.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Cr Jim Childs with MAV President Cr Bill McArthur.

NEED MORE INFO? Follow us on Twitter @Viccouncils Like us on Facebook facebook.com/viccouncils Subscribe to the MAV bulletin mav.asn.au

Referendum

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SAY YES for your community

to legitimise direct Federal funding for local roads, parks and public places. Vote ‘YES’ on September 14. Find more information on constitutional recognition at www.councilreferendum.com.au 2 4 c i vi c

From defunct land to award winning hangout Creative conversations helped shape Greater Dandenong City Council’s award winning Noble Park Civic Space.

he redevelopment of a piece of poorly maintained and unattractive land owned by VicTrack that was being used as an unauthorised car park opened late last year. The redevelopment took around five years to come to fruition, with extensive community consultation and negotiations held between landowner VicTrack and later the leaseholder, Metro Trains. An innovative approach to community engagement centred on a series of creative conversations, which has become council’s model for achieving social outcomes from capital projects.

3D models were used during creative conversations that helped shape the popular new public space.

Cultural Planning Officer Grissel Walmaggia said the process involved consulting with 14 different groups from the community including schools, TAFEs, sporting and business groups before any work on designs had been made. “This was a unique approach to community consultation because we were not going to them with a design and seeking comment, we were asking them to inform the design of the space,” Ms Walmaggia said. “What we were looking for was the community’s aspirations for a design that would offer residents and visitors an opportunity to linger, enjoy and participate in the space.” During the consultation with the groups, which included 360 individuals, a 3D model of the site became the focal point for discussion.

Participants gathered at a large table to assemble the jigsaw puzzle-like pieces which included trees, market stalls, squares and cubes. “This activity helped the community to identify things they wanted to see in the new space,” Ms Walmaggia said. Professional photography, audio recordings and notes documented each session. These were used to develop an Esquisse (to sketch an idea), which was re-presented to the group to fine-tune their ideas. “Each group had different ideas. Young people had lots of basketball courts, traders included market stalls, students wanted large projection screens,” Ms Walmaggia said. “The outcomes of the consultation sessions revealed key aspirations that were common among each group. “This included pragmatic elements like shelters, landscaping, seating and also highlighted the community’s desire for artwork, a stage area and 3-phase power, which were used in the design brief.” The redevelopment was a whole-of-council project with the asset management team undertaking negotiations with VicTrack and Metro Trains while internal urban designers set about the task of creating a space that honoured the community’s wishes. With a big focus on art coming out of the consultation, council’s arts and cultural development team identified festivals, events and public artwork that could be installed on site. “By working together, council and the community has created a popular meeting spot, a transient place for people enjoying the outdoors on their lunch break or a stop point to and from the train station,” Ms Walmaggia said. Since opening in August 2012, Noble Park Civic Space has been utilised during the annual Noble Park Art Show, Christmas came to life with roving performances and decorations, public art has been installed and on weekends dwellers have been treated to organised live music buskers. Greater Dandenong Mayor Angela Long said the Noble Park Civic Space redevelopment was a fantastic community asset. “The redevelopment has transformed an unattractive and poorly maintained piece of land into a welcoming public space,” Cr Long said. “It’s highly regarded by the community and is often the focus for community activities – creating positive perceptions about Noble Park.” As well as being a big winner with the local community, the Noble Park Civic Space was recognised with an LGPro Award for Excellence – Community Assets and Infrastructure Initiative $1 million and under.

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In Brief

Virtual singing

Loddon Mallee ANRI Development Manager Graeme Lynas, Buloke Shire Mayor Reid Mather and Lynk McClelland.

Regional food boost The Loddon Mallee region hosted a major jobs summit to kick-start a ground-breaking new economic and employment effort, the AgriFood National Regional Initiative (AgriFood NRI). An Australian first, the summit worked with rural industry, government, education and training providers to confront the chronic employment and job retention problems endemic in regional communities. AgriFood NRI is focused on working with regional areas to attract and retain workers, increase profits for businesses and build stronger communities. Loddon Mallee Regional Development Manager Graeme Lynas said the initiative would be, “a game-changer for the Buloke, Gannawarra and Loddon Shires.” “The opportunity to provide quality education and training across the agrifoods industry will boost the skills of employers and employees, lift profitability and produce stronger communities,” Mr Lynas said.

Ballarat City Council, together with VicHealth and Regional Arts Victoria, has launched the Virtual Choir project. Individual audio files will become a mass choir recording set to an aerial flyover film of the region. Ballarat Portfolio Councillor for Destination and Economy Peter Innes said the project aimed to bring the community and the surrounding regions together in song. “The project is unique in that it sees an exciting use of the virtual creative space and brings people together to participate creatively regardless of distance,” he said. About 200 residents have already uploaded part of Paul Kelly’s song Meet me in the middle of the air, which was especially arranged for the project.

Council cleans up A partnership between Cardinia Shire Council and the Department of Justice has resulted in the launch of a new graffiti removal program. A new, streamlined process for reporting and removing graffiti has been introduced, including an updated graffiti removal kit or “citizen’s pack”. Council can now post a citizen’s pack to arrive the day after receiving a report of graffiti vandalism to private property, enabling graffiti tags to be removed completely or rendered unreadable, discouraging repeat offences.

Full steam ahead Carbon neutral As part of its undertaking to become one of the world’s most sustainable cities, Melbourne City Council has been certified carbon neutral. Environment Portfolio Chair Councillor Arron Wood said certification by Low Carbon Australia against the National Carbon Offset Standard (NCOS) was a solid demonstration of Melbourne City Council’s commitment to sustainability. 2 6 c i vi c

“As part of our work, we’re delivering new waste management solutions, upgrading several of our council buildings by installing efficient heating, cooling and water systems and making improvements to Melbourne Town Hall that will result in a significant saving in lighting costs,” Cr Wood said. Melbourne City Council is further encouraging residents to take up a lower-carbon lifestyle by extending its bike network and encouraging walking and use of public transport.

The historical Warragul Station Precinct is set to benefit from a $3.35 million investment from the Australian Government. “The Warragul train station is a vital piece of infrastructure that has needed redevelopment for a number of years to improve access to transport in the town,” Baw Baw Shire Council Mayor Murray Cook said. “Council has worked with the community and the Victorian Government to develop a master plan to make improvements to the precinct and

the Federal Government’s investment will help to finally make it a reality.” The funding includes $2.6 million to enable improved traffic management and pedestrian links on the road underpass. The remaining $750,000 will provide the relocation and restoration of the heritage railway shed, facilitating the car park redevelopment, enhancing the view of these prominent heritage buildings and providing a vibrant community space for both locals and visitors.

Pedal power Alpine Shire continues to grow as a premier cycling destination with recreational riders, mountain bikers and road cyclists all catered for by an increasing number of projects and businesses in the region. The launch of the Community Plantation Project will see 20,000 hectares of Hancock Victorian Plantation pines made available for recreational cycling use. Council’s Manager Economic Development Clayton Neil said the project was the first of its kind in the country. “This is a genuine and unique partnership between Hancock Victorian Plantation, council and the community to build on the Alpine Shire’s cycle tourism offer,” he said. A second development is thanks to a Victorian Government commitment of $1 million to construct a shared trail from Harrietville to Bright to add to the region’s current cycling paths and rail trail facilities.

VicHealth Letter After a brief hiatus, VicHealth Letter is back in circulation. The latest edition provides insights into the links between health and the environment. It features an article about VicHealth’s preventing violence against women project in partnership with the YMCA, as well as valuable information on a Victorian survey local councils are using to guide their Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plans. An online version is available at www.e-brochures.com.au/vichealth/ Letter-2013-Issue-36-Healthy-Choices/

Events

June Archibald Prize 2013 Date: 8 June - 7 July 2013 Venue: Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery, Dunns Road, Mornington Description: Attention art lovers. The Archibald Prize is considered the most important portraiture prize in Australia and the only venue in Victoria to host this prestigious exhibition is the Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery. The event will attract thousands and bookings are essential. Need more? mprg.mornpen.vic.gov.au

July

Description: Eat, drink and discover the best regional produce from the Surf Coast, Otways, Golden Plains, Central Geelong and Bellarine Peninsula at the two-day extravaganza. A vast array of food, wine, ciders and boutique beers will be on offer for sampling and savouring as well as the Best of the Best Regional Highlights Dinner on the Saturday night. Need more? extravaganzageelong.com.au

Celebrate NAIDOC Week – rediscover indigenous plants Date: 14 July 2013 Venue: Whittlesea Community Garden, Laurel Street, Whittlesea Description: Celebrate NAIDOC week and learn something about bush tucker by helping the residents of Whittlesea establish a bushfoods garden. You don’t need green thumbs to come and learn about our indigenous plants and Aboriginal culture from local Wurundjeri Elder, Ian Hunter. Need more? naidoc.org.au

August 10th Anniversary Ned Kelly Weekend Date: 2 August - 4 August 2013 Venue: Beechworth, various locations Description: Australia’s biggest Ned Kelly event commemorates the anniversary of his committal hearing at the Beechworth Courthouse in August 1880. Enjoy the lively program of re-enactments, theatre, art, music, market stalls, heritage displays and talks by leading authorities on the life and times of Australia’s most notorious bushranger. Need more? beechworthonline.com.au

Great Australian Vanilla Slice Triumph Camperdown’s Robert Burns Scottish Festival Date: 5 July - 7 July 2013 Venue: Camperdown, various locations Description: Inspired by Camperdown’s historically significant and recently restored statue of Robert Burns, this festival is a celebration not only to the great poet but of all things Scottish as well. Come and enjoy the bagpiping competition, whiskey tasting and making, golf competition, fiddle and tin whistle music workshops and much more. Need more? camperdownburnsfestival.com

Extravaganza Geelong Date: 13 July - 14 July 2013 Venue: Cunningham Pier, 10 Western Beach Foreshore Road, Geelong

Winter Blues Festival

Date: 26 July - 28 July 2013 Venue: Echuca Moama, various locations Description: Embrace the winter blues and visit the annual Winter Blues festival in Echuca Moama. The vast majority of the blues and roots music is free and visitors and locals alike will enjoy the atmosphere from every street corner, restaurant, bar and even on board the famous paddle steamers. Need more? winterblues.com.au

Date: 17 August 2013 Venue: Commercial Street and Railway Avenue, Merbein (just outside Mildura) Description: Perhaps Australia’s yummiest event? This fun filled day will include the judging of the best baker, amateur and student vanilla slices as well as live entertainment, market stalls, a rock climbing wall, jumping castle, merry-go-round and face painting. Need more? merbeinvanillaslice.com

Melbourne Writers Festival Date: 22 August - 1 September 2013 Venue: Federation Square, Melbourne Description: The Melbourne Writers Festival is filled with events that celebrate the written word. Featuring panel discussions, film screenings, workshops, debates and children’s sessions, join in and become part of the story. Need more? mwf.com.au c i vi c

… Cut this out and stick it to your pinboard …

Write here, write now Plans, strategies and reports due? But what if the content isn’t written, edited or proof read? You need to call Allison Harding, a communications consultant with vast experience working with local government. “I quickly understand situations and identify what needs to be done to ensure council documents are written in plain English,” Allison says. “I like building strong and effective relationships with staff so I can produce the right content to communicate the right message. “Council communications and public affairs teams are often under pressure – especially if there’s an ongoing media issue – and just don’t have the resources to help. I step in and help develop or finalise reports, brochures and strategies.”

Allison has nearly 25 years experience in metropolitan media and communications roles, and has consulted to Bayside, Kingston, Yarra, Frankston and Stonnington City Councils, as well as to health, not-forprofit and business organisations. Most of Allison’s work comes from recommendations, a testament to the quality of her work and her integrity. “I’ve found a niche in local government, and I like that council staff genuinely care for their communities,” she says.

GR Design and Construct has been designing, engineering fabricating and installing a wide range of public infrastructure out of our Port Melbourne Warehouse for almost ten years. Our centrally located warehouse allows us to deliver projects in a timely manner in conjunction with our Project Management delivery team. We work closely with Councils, Landscape Architects, Schools and the public sector in general. Our product offer ranges from small economical neighbourhood shelters to “one off” bespoke custom structures. Further GR has extensive experience in a range of public amenity buildings, access structures such as boardwalks, pedestrian & road bridges and a range of commercial furniture. GR does all timber and steel fabrication in-house, when jobs are fabricated ready for installation GR installation team can swing into action, alternatively we can flat product for customer to install. We aim to deliver projects from conception to completion including all trades required; draftsmen, engineers, plumbers, electricians, carpenters, concreters etc. Complete project management! GR has completed hundreds of projects in all shapes and sizes for various Community and Open Space projects throughout Victoria, both city and country alike. All of our projects are available to view on our website, photo gallery, link below.

www.grdesignandconstruct.com.au Andrew Gunnersen 0418 304 099

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Allison Harding Deft Write Media

0425 814 152 (03) 9585 1158 writemedia@bigpond.com www.deftwritemedia.com.au

Allison assists councils through: § § § §

Project managing newsletters, Annual Reports, Community Plans and Council Plans Writing, editing and developing communications strategies Researching and writing media releases and following up with journalists Interviewing and writing about council staff, councillors, volunteers or local business people

§ § § § §

Writing and editing strategies, plans and reports Writing and producing marketing material, including advertising Writing and uploading web content, including social media posts Liaising with internal or consultant graphic designers, photographers and printers, and Filling gaps in public affairs and communications teams.

A great new working life at Boroondara A new employer brand communications campaign has been launched, carrying the mantra ‘The City of Boroondara – It’s your working life’.

oroondara City Council is using the statement to attract high calibre new recruits and empower existing staff to make the most of working at council. The campaign was developed to improve internal and recruitment communications and boost Boroondara’s image as a great place to work. The Communications and Engagement and People and Culture departments collaborated to ensure the workplace they promoted was the workplace staff experienced, agreeing that the brand needed to be authentic and relevant to staff. Before the new campaign was launched, Boroondara used several different logos and statements to attract new employees or inform existing staff about the opportunities available. Developing a new employer brand has made Boroondara’s internal and external messaging more consistent and the updated message is now more relevant to staff. Boroondara CEO Phil Storer believes staff involvement was very valuable. “During the process a number of existing staff members were involved, which increased their sense of ownership and awareness,” he said. ‘We asked staff what they wanted from their work and their employer and from there established a working group with representatives from all departments to develop and roll out the ‘City of Boroondara – It’s your working life’ statement across the organisation. ‘We also learnt more about staff goals and how important it is to identify Boroondara as a flexible employer that values, supports and develops all staff and their diverse aspirations. The new employer brand was launched internally by Mr Storer, who addressed managers and team leaders about the importance of understanding, promoting and living the new statement. “Its success relies on the organisation’s leaders promoting Boroondara’s core values

of integrity, collaboration, accountability, innovation and respect,” he said. “When staff see ‘The City of Boroondara – It’s your working life’ branding they know to expect information relevant to them; whether that is free flu immunisation, study opportunities or the footy tipping competition. ”They know it is up to them to take advantage of the opportunities that best suit them. And the campaign seems to be working.” The results from the new brand are being seen across council. Staff participation numbers have increased in the health and wellbeing program and more are taking advantage of the corporate learning offerings. Requests for thank you cards to recognise staff efforts have risen and the new ‘It’s your working life’ templates are appearing around the organisation promoting internal opportunities. According to Boroondara’s Organisation Development and Learning Adviser Dragana Lolic, ‘It’s your working life’ is piquing staff curiosity. “Staff see the new statement, want to know what it’s all about and in the process discover opportunities that interest them, whether that’s professional development or improved health and wellbeing,” she said. ‘It’s your working life’ also forms the cornerstone of Boroondara’s recruitment strategy, promoting the many opportunities for current and future Boroondara staff. So far, job applicants have responded well to the use of ‘It’s your working life’ on Boroondara’s careers website. “We hope that eventually ‘The City of Boroondara – It’s your working life’ will become synonymous with great employment opportunities in the local government sector, both within our organisation and beyond,” Mr Storer said. Boroondara won a prestigious Government Communications Australia Award for Best Internal Communications and Engagement for 2013 for this project. c i vi c

ver two chilly autumn nights 34,000 people descended on Hanging Rock to witness a non-stop three-hour concert from the 60-plus year old musician who was supported earlier in the day by Australian indie band The Rubens and one of the country’s favourite rockers, Jimmy Barnes, who opened for Springsteen. A detailed economic impact assessment is still being finalised, but preliminary findings reveal that the third consecutive annual Hanging Rock concert, presented by Michael Gudinski’s Frontier Touring Group in partnership with Macedon Ranges Shire Council, provided a $14 million economic boost to the region. With almost 17 per cent of tickets sold to interstate fans and close to 15 per cent traveling from Melbourne by charter bus, it is little wonder that accommodation in the region sold out within days of the tour being announced. Macedon Ranges Shire Council Manager of Recreation and Culture Rod Clough said the economic impact was far greater than the previous year where the economic benefit resulting from Rod Stewart’s performance was estimated at around $2.3 million. “Our local businesses were certainly pleased with the long weekend events; our townships across the shire were very busy,” he said. “Being held on the Easter long weekend, and with more than 5,000 people from interstate and thousands more from Melbourne and surrounding shires, we found people spent more time in and around Macedon Ranges than in previous years,” Mr Clough said. Starting with a blank, natural canvas, organisation of these large3 0 c i vi c

American rock legend Bruce Springsteen thrilled two packed-out crowds over the Easter weekend as arguably Victoria’s most spectacular outdoor concert venue, Hanging Rock, was once again thrust into the spotlight.

scale Hanging Rock concerts starts months before the event arrives. “Planning starts almost as soon as the previous concert has finished and on-site set-up starts at least two weeks prior to the event,” Mr Clough said. “A large number of contractors are engaged to build the site given there is no infrastructure onsite.” Many council departments are involved in staging the events, from Hanging Rock staff to tourism officers engaging with accommodation

operators and businesses, environmental health staff working with caterers through to works staff providing watering trucks. “There are very few council departments that do not play a part in the concerts in some way,” Mr Clough said. Hanging Rock is a spectacular tourism site in itself, and events at the iconic landmark are proving to be a great economic driver for the region.

Macedon Ranges Shire Council has secured a $2 million grant to improve infrastructure at Hanging Rock under the federal government’s Regional Development Australia Fund. The funding will be used to develop infrastructure to support future events, picnicking and visitors to Hanging Rock. Works will include two new visitor shelters, the supply of electricity, water and informal lighting to the main reserve and picnic grounds, improved pedestrian access and car parking, and enhancements to improve wildlife corridors and habitat. Mayor Roger Jukes said the project would improve council’s ability to support, sustain and enhance visitor numbers to Hanging Rock and the region through picnickers, concerts and events. “Income generated from events and visitor entrance fees will help to care for Hanging Rock Reserve, so that this natural icon can be protected into the future,” Cr Jukes said. It is estimated that Hanging Rock currently generates $10.9 million to the regional economy annually, including support for 50 full-time equivalent jobs. “Over the next 10 years, we have conservatively estimated that this project will provide an economic benefit to the region of approximately $22 million, and 10 equivalent full-time jobs annually,” Cr Jukes said. Council proposes to contribute $550,000 in the 2013/14 budget and a further $450,000 in the following year. The $4 million project budget also includes project management support by council, and contributions from Kyneton and Hanging Rock Racing Club and the Department of Sustainability and Environment.

French inspiration gets Balwyn seniors on the move

Canterbury resident Janet Woolhouse (left) and Ruth Skinner from Balwyn test Boroondara City Council’s new WALK, REST, TALK walking circuit.

oroondara Community Safety Officer Ros Winkler went on a Parisian holiday and returned with a great idea to get seniors more active. After four years her idea for a project to encourage seniors living within the Boroondara community

to walk, Ms Winkler’s idea has come to fruition. WALK, REST, TALK is a four kilometre walking circuit through hilly Balwyn. Along the way, 17 benches made from recycled plastic bags have been placed where senior walkers can sit, recuperate and chat.

Ms Winkler said that when visiting Paris she noticed there were public benches everywhere. “People could enjoy being outside much more comfortably,” she said. “I found that I met people in Paris, simply by sitting on a park bench. It seemed very civilised.” The project was designed in consultation with local seniors groups and the Inner East Community Centre. It aims to improve safety, community connections and fitness among senior residents. Brochures have been printed in English, Chinese, Greek and Italian. As well as showing the circuit and bench placement, it also has a list of public toilets and tips for safe walking, such as taking a mobile phone and making eye contact with drivers before crossing roads. Funded by a $22,000 Transport Accident Commission grant with Boroondara’s in-kind support, the circuit has been popular with seniors groups. Almost 20 per cent of Boroondara’s population is aged 60 or over, with numbers expected to rise from 30,000 to 35,000 aged over 60 in the coming decade. Boroondara Mayor Jack Wegman said enhancing the health and

wellbeing of Boroondara’s senior residents was extremely important to council. “It is one of the reasons why we became only the second council in Victoria to join the World Health Organisation’s Age-friendly Cities Program,” Cr Wegman said. “Projects like WALK, REST, TALK are helping Boroondara’s senior residents keep fit, stay connected and enjoy life.”

Irwins met by Shepparton winners Justene Cowie

wo lucky competition winners recently became Greater Shepparton ambassadors and got their chance to travel to Melbourne and meet with enthusiastic young wildlife warriors Bindi and Robert Irwin, children of the late adventure seeker Steve Irwin. As part of a program to promote the region’s fresh food industry and healthy living, Marnie Tricario and Violet Lorenz joined Mayor Jenny Houlihan to welcome the Irwin siblings to Melbourne during the launch of SPC Ardmona’s Goulburn Valley Fresh – a new product range to target junk food eating by making fresh fruit more accessible.

Greater Shepparton supported the event to demonstrate its strong backing of its own local fruit growing industry. “Success for SPC Ardmona means jobs for Greater Shepparton,” Mayor Jenny Houlihan said. “I congratulate them (SPC Ardmona) on this innovation, and for investing in promoting a healthy lifestyle for our children.” Council also used the event as an opportunity to spread the word about Greater Shepparton’s many family friendly activities and initiatives. “This was an opportunity to tell the wider community about the great things in our region,” Cr Houlihan said.

“Who better to tell Bindi and Robert about the wonderful activities available to young people than our own young people,” she said. Young ambassador hopefuls were asked to draw a picture of what it might be like if Bindi and Robert came to play at SPC Ardmona Kidstown and write what they love about living in the region. Bindi, Robert and the two ambassadors were presented with prize packs full of vouchers, produce and items from around Greater Shepparton. All competition entrants received a letter of thanks from the Mayor for their positive attitude to their community. c i vi c

Where do your passions lie, given you have a very diverse range of roles and responsibilities? My passion lies with ensuring effective communication between council and our communities – even issues that may be negative. I think it is essential to be transparent and honest with the community. I believe in respectfully and strongly advocating for equality and access to services that I think some communities and councils take for granted.

FIVE

minutes with …

What is your key priority for council?

Cr Colleen Furlanetto Deputy Mayor Strathbogie Shire Council Strathbogie Deputy Mayor Colleen Furlanetto is currently serving her second term on council. A Strathbogie resident all her life, she is a true local. Cr Furnaletto spoke to CiVic and shared what she loves about her home, her job and the drivers that keep her passion to serve Strathbogie residents alive. What does a typical week look like for the Deputy Mayor of Strathbogie? Every day of the week requires work on council activities. Each morning is usually greeted by replying to emails. Monday is usually spent in meetings for boards or committees. Then there is project work, like organising the Australian Local Governance Women’s Association conference, which has taken pretty much any spare time to organise and coordinate over the past few months. Main council day is Tuesday which includes briefings, the assembly of councillors, meetings, and presentations from community groups. I am studying for a Diploma of Local Government (highly recommended) so I need to fit in some study time. Weekends are for functions and activities in the community and hopefully some family time.

You’ve lived in Strathbogie all your life. What makes the area so special? As a fourth generation to the area, living and raising a family with my husband and running a small business in this district is our life. Strathbogie is special because of the sense of community and connection to people, 3 2 c i vi c

and the places in and around our family community.

You often talk about ‘connecting’ to your community. How important is this in being an effective councillor? I think it is essential to be connected, really connected. Having the privilege of being born and bred locally can be an advantage, however, I’m never under any illusion that I know what’s best for my community simply by being a councillor. Any decisions I make on behalf of our community I do so with commitment and the level of seriousness it deserves.

What are some of the challenges that come with being a rural councillor? In many small rural councils like ours, councillors with a long history of family and private connections, and involvement in local businesses, can be faced with conflict of interest laws and the headaches that go with it at times. To represent the community by bringing knowledge of the issues to council discussions can be a balancing act and often leaves many of us in similar situations frustrated.

Number one is health and community wellbeing, and support for basic essential services. My priorities are to ensure I represent my community effectively and continue to be committed for the long haul to see change on many issues. I don’t want to support quick fixes. I support sustained services, infrastructure and keeping the agenda accountable and real.

How important to you is your role as a White Ribbon Champion? I am committed to a right to respect. I think in this day and age many people have lost sight of respect for self, respect for others and respect for diversity including gender equity. I feel that it is generational change that is required to see our communities in the future to ultimately have domestic violence an issue of the past. Investing now will ensure safe communities for the future. We must respect and provide leadership in local government to provide, advocate and truly commit to working hard to prevent violence against women and children.

You’ve worked for 20 years as a registered nurse and in family businesses. How does this experience help you in your current role as deputy mayor? Nursing was a childhood dream. Studying nursing with a young family and new business was challenging but we learnt so much during that time.

Describe your perfect day ‘off’. Hmmm … if you ask my family I’m not very disciplined at a day off. It’s something I’m working on. Up there is definitely rest and a barbecue lunch with my crew where we can just sit and talk about nothing … but everything.

WHAT’s HOT Luna Park upgrade Port Phillip is upgrading Luna Park’s iconic entrance as part of ongoing improvements to the St Kilda Foreshore.

Movies for Officer Cardinia’s newest residential development, Officer, has received planning approval for a seven screen cinema complex in its town centre.

Age-old friends The Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation has given the Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria funding to the tune of $300,000 for its Age Friendly Communities project, enabling Victorian communities to join WHO’s Global Network of Agefriendly Cities and Communities.

First woman MBS Ballarat has appointed Victoria’s first woman Municipal Building Surveyor. Congratulations Suada Ramic.

Pest plague The infestation of elm leaf beetles, a pest plaguing elms around Colac is spreading.

Landfill dumping Two Melton property owners have been caught dumping rubbish. Council has ordered the culprits to pay $25,000 each plus costs.

Cigarettes for minors Monash has busted eight tobacco retailers selling cigarettes to a minor. They face fines up to $563.

TOBACCONIST

WHAT’s NOT Illustration by Kathryn Steel.

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Agents for Victoria Ikonic Playgrounds Pty Ltd Phone: (03) 9783 3263 email: info@ikonicplaygrounds.com.au www.ikonicplaygrounds.com.au